Preview - Chelsea
WHUFC.com
When and where?
West Ham United v Chelsea
Premier League
Monday 6 March 2017, 8pm GMT
London Stadium
What's the story?
West Ham United go for their second home win of the season against Chelsea –
and third in succession – when the Premier League leading Blues visit London
Stadium on Monday night.
Antonio Conte's men have romped into a ten-point lead at the head of the
table with a stunning run of form which has seen them lose just one of their
last 20 league fixtures.
One of their few setbacks in Conte's debut season at the helm came in E20 in
October, when goals from Cheikhou Kouyate and Edimilson Fernandes propelled
the Hammers to a 2-1 victory in the EFL Cup fourth round.
That did not throw the Blues out of their Premier League stride, however, as
it came in their middle of their 13-game winning streak which allowed them
to establish their formidable lead at the head of the table.
Chelsea won their last league match 3-1, putting Swansea City to the sword
with Cesc Fabregas, Pedro and Diego Costa all on target.
West Ham were ninth going into this weekend's fixtures, with two draws from
their last two games – 2-2 at home to West Bromwich Albion in mid-February
and 1-1 at Watford last week, when Andre Ayew's 73rd minute goal cancelled
out Troy Deeney's early penalty.
Slaven Bilic's side have lost just one of their last six Premier League
assignments, taking eleven points from that sequence.
Team news
West Ham United will hope to have Andy Carroll back for Monday's game, after
the No9 returned to training this week. He has been in scintillating form
recently, scoring four goals in his last four appearances – but missed those
games against West Brom and Watford.
Carroll could slot straight in for Michail Antonio, who will sit out due to
a one-match ban incurred for his sending off at Vicarage Road.
Angelo Ogbonna, Diafra Sakho and Gokhan Tore are all out injured.
For Chelsea, Antonio Conte has a fully-fit squad at his disposal, and former
Hammers loanee Victor Moses is set to feature at right wing-back.
Match Stat
Match stat
How do I get to the game?
Click here for our comprehensive Matchday Guide for fans attending Monday's
game at London Stadium, answering your questions on everything from
transport to catering.
For up-to-the minute news on the roads, London Underground, London
Overground and TfL Rail networks, click here. The latest service updates on
National Rail services can be found here.
A cool, cloudy night is expected in east London, with temperature at
kick-off 8C (46F).
How can I watch the game?
Monday's London derby is being broadcast live in the UK on Sky Sports. You
can also follow all the action as it happens right here on whufc.com. Our
Live Match Centre carries free audio commentary from our radio partners BBC
London, social media updates and in-running stats, photos and more.
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From The Boardroom - David Gold
WHUFC.com
We are all looking forward to a London derby against Chelsea on Monday
evening and the opportunity to push ourselves back into the top half of the
Premier League table.
SEATS AVAILABLE ON TICKET EXCHANGE
Of course it will be a tough test against a side who are overwhelming
favourites to win the title, and were 10 points clear before Tottenham beat
Everton on Sunday afternoon, but we can certainly take confidence from our
performances against the Blues so far this season.
We were unlucky not to get something from the game in the reverse fixture at
Stamford Bridge on the opening weekend of the season, when Diego Costa
grabbed a late winner after being fortunate to stay on the pitch.
And then of course came our memorable win at London Stadium in the EFL Cup
fourth round. We were outstanding that evening and thoroughly deserved to go
through to the next round.
That victory looks even more impressive now when you consider the run that
Chelsea have been on since, but I see no reason why we can't produce another
winning display against Antonio Conte's side.
We are at home under the lights, London Stadium is becoming very special now
and I'm convinced the atmosphere will be absolutely electrifying.
And if you look at the teams we fielded in those previous two encounters, I
believe we are stronger now thanks to the players who have returned from
injury and the two new signings that came in during the January transfer
window.
I also think we are more together. Whenever I have spoken to Mark Noble or
been around the players recently, I've seen that camaraderie and spirit,
which is so important.
I must say, the two new boys, Fonte and Snodgrass, have certainly played
their part in that sense. They are two very experienced professionals with
fantastic character, and have made a very positive impression, both on the
pitch and in the dressing-room.
Fonte was magnificent in our last match at Watford, where our second half
performance deserved to earn us all three points.
The biggest disappointment of course was Michail Antonio's red card, which
rules him out of facing Chelsea. He has been in such great form, and is such
an attacking force when running on the ball.
With Andy Carroll hopefully back from injury, it would have been lovely to
have them both available, and for Slaven to have that selection headache in
the forward positions.
Nonetheless, we are now getting to a situation where we have international
experience and quality on the bench, which is a hugely valuable asset for
the manager. The performances in recent weeks have displayed that strength
in depth.
It all adds up to what should be a fantastic encounter on Monday night. I'm
truly optimistic that we will see a positive performance from the team,
spurred on by the passion and spirit of our fans.
That passion and spirit was certainly evident on Thursday night, when I
attended the premiere of the new Iron Men DVD at the Genesis cinema in Mile
End.
It was an incredible evening. The emotions swung backwards and forward, ups
and downs, the film was amazing. And the stars of it are the fans. Mabel
Arnold, for example, at 100-years-old, was just fantastic.
I thought it might just be an interesting documentary, but it was far more
than that. The film is truly captivating and takes you along all the highs
and lows of that unforgettable final season, which perfectly sums up what
being a West Ham fan is all about.
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Dicks draws on Chelsea memories
WHUFC.com
Julian Dicks hoping to add to his list of victories over Chelsea on Monday
evening
Terminator scored twice in wins over the Blues during his West Ham United
playing career
Hammers have won their previous two home games against the west London club
Julian Dicks is hoping to add to his bank of fond memories of facing Chelsea
when the Blues visit London Stadium on Monday.
West Ham United's first-team coaching assistant enjoyed a 4-1 First Division
win over Chelsea in just his seventh Hammers appearance back in May 1988,
while he was part of the side which scored a 1-0 League Cup success against
the Pensioners in October 1994.
Dicks completed a hat-trick of victories over the west London club when his
thumping header secured a 2-1 Premier League win over the Blues at Stamford
Bridge in February 1996, before his penalty helped the Hammers to a 3-2
victory at the Boleyn Ground in March 1997.
On returning to the Club in summer 2015, the Terminator saw West Ham defeat
Chelsea 2-1 in the Premier League on their final visit to Upton Park, before
guiding the Hammers to an EFL Cup victory over Antonio Conte's side on their
first-ever trip to Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park.
Unsurprisingly, the four-time Hammer of the Year enjoys derby dates against
the men from SW6.
"I remember beating them 4-1 at Upton Park but the one which sticks out for
me is when we beat them 2-1 at Stamford Bridge," he recalled. "Danny
Williamson scored and then I scored a header.
"I remember getting some stick from David Mellor in the few weeks before
over the John Spencer incident, so I enjoyed scoring that goal and helping
us get the win.
"To be honest, I enjoy the derby matches more than any other, especially
under the lights. I always enjoyed facing Chelsea and Tottenham during my
playing career and, as a coach, it's no different."
While Dicks enjoyed getting one over Chelsea as a player, he knows adding to
that list of victories on Monday will be difficult, seeing as Conte's side
are seven points clear at the top of the Premier League.
"Chelsea are top of the division by a long stretch, they are a good team
with some very good players," Dicks observed. "Listen, we're going to have
to be on our game and give 100 per cent for us to have a chance of winning
this game.
"Last year, they were blaming Jose Mourinho and it probably was a factor,
but you can see they are all pulling together.
"When we played them in the EFL Cup, they brought on Diego Costa and Eden
Hazard and the game changed because they have got so much pace and bring the
ball forward so quickly."
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Cresswell ready for Moses reunion
WHUFC.com
Aaron Cresswell ready to face former West Ham United teammate Victor Moses
Left-back first faced Chelsea wing-back in an FA Youth Cup tie when he was
just 16
No3 was turning out for Tranmere Rovers, while Moses was in action for
Crystal Palace
As he prepares for the challenge of slowing down Victor Moses, Aaron
Cresswell revealed that he has known about the Chelsea player's talents for
longer than most.
Cresswell was 16 and Moses just 15 when Tranmere Rovers travelled to
Selhurst Park to take on Crystal Palace in the FA Youth Cup fourth round in
January 2006. Despite his tender years, Moses was the star of the show,
inspiring the Eagles to a 3-1 victory, and leaving an impression on
Tranmere's young defender.
Eleven years on and, after spending last season as teammates, the pair are
set to square-off again at London Stadium on Monday night, with left-back
Cresswell set to come up directly against the Blues' flying right wing-back.
"Vic spent a year with us here and he's a great lad, and he's really kicked
on and shown what he is all about this season," he said. "Some people
questioned if he would ever fulfil his potential, but since Antonio Conte
has come in, he's taken to it and had a right go and has arguably been one
of their best players.
"Vic is a very laid-back and chilled character, but since their new manager
has come in, he's really got his head down and worked hard and it looks like
he's going to win the Premier League.
"His ability was never in question. He has fantastic talent and I remember
playing against him in the Youth Cup when he was at Crystal Palace and he
was 15 and even at that age you could see the ability that he had.
"I'm looking forward to the game because you want to play against the best
teams and the best players and Chelsea have certainly got them."
While Moses is in the form of his life, Cresswell knows Chelsea possess
quality all over the pitch, with every one of the eleven players knowing
their role precisely in Antonio Conte's favoured 3-5-2 formation.
Since moving to three centre-halves in early October, Chelsea have lost just
two of 20 matches in all competitions – at Tottenham Hotspur in the Premier
League and, of course, at London Stadium in the EFL Cup.
Despite being one of only four teams to defeat the Blues this season –
Liverpool and Arsenal did so before Conte's tactical switch – Cresswell
knows West Ham need to be at their best to defeat the runaway leaders.
"Of course we know it's going to be a tough game as they are comfortably
leading the Premier League," he confirmed. "They've been fantastic under
their new manager and since they've changed formation we have seen what a
good team they really are.
"If you play 3-5-2, it certainly makes being a wing-back a
physically-demanding position to play, as you have two jobs to do at once.
Chelsea have got the personnel that fit perfectly into that formation and
they've really kicked on since they changed to that formation.
"We've played that system a few times ourselves, so we know what that
formation is all about but, regardless of that, we know it's going to be a
tough game. We beat them 2-1 earlier this season and I'd definitely take
that again, but they're a top team so we'll need to be at our very best."
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Five Talking Points – Chelsea
WHUFC.com
The major discussion points ahead of West Ham United's London derby with
Chelsea on Monday evening...
History repeating?
Chelsea have lost just FOUR of the 32 matches they have contested in Premier
League, Emirates FA Cup and EFL Cup this season – all of them in London.
Three of those defeats were suffered in the Premier League – at home to
Liverpool and away from home at Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur – while the
fourth came in the EFL Cup fourth round at London Stadium back in October.
West Ham United produced an inspired performance to overcome Antonio Conte's
team 2-1, with goals from Cheikhou Kouyate and Edimilson Fernandes. While
Chelsea have improved since that defeat, so have the Hammers, who have lost
just three of their last 12 Premier League matches. So, the question is, can
history repeat itself?
Forward thinking
Andy Carroll returned to the training pitch in midweek and is on course to
make his comeback after missing two Premier League matches with a groin
injury. The big No9 was in superb form before his latest injury setback,
scoring six goals in eleven Premier League appearances over the Christmas
and New Year period.
With Michail Antonio absent through suspension after being red carded at
Watford a week ago, Carroll's return comes at the vital time for Slaven
Bilic. The forward's skillset should occupy Gary Cahill and his central
defensive partners, lifting the pressure that Chelsea will undoubtedly put
on the Hammers on Monday night.
Fabregas v Lanzini
While it is of course far more complex than that, the midfield battle
between playmakers Cesc Fabregas and Manuel Lanzini will be fascinating.
Having just passed 300 Premier League appearances, Fabregas has 102 Premier
League assists to his name – second only to Ryan Giggs – and the Spaniard's
influence on Chelsea's play appears to be growing. Fabregas's passing and
movement are both exceptional and central to the Blues' lightning-quick ball
movement, which has given so many opponents nightmares this season. Lanzini
is a different player, but he too has become a vital player for his team,
creating space with his close control and elusive play, and chances with his
incisive passing. Whoever comes out on top between Fabregas and Lanzini may
decide Monday's game in their team's favour.
Resurgent Moses
Slaven Bilic told his pre-match press conference that Dimitri Payet
described Victor Moses as West Ham United's 'best player' during the
Nigerian's loan spell in east London last season. For whatever reason, Moses
did not discover his top form in Claret and Blue, but he has certainly done
so with his parent club this season.
Athletic, strong and skilful, Moses has established himself as Chelsea's
first-choice right wing-back, earning a new long-term contract in the past
week. The promise that he showed during his formative years at Crystal
Palace and, in patches, in a West Ham shirt a year ago, is finally and
spectacularly being fulfilled.
Early issues
West Ham United will need to concentrate for the entire 90 minutes when they
face a formidable Chelsea team on Monday. That much would have been true had
the Hammers not conceded in the opening 12 minutes in each of their last
three Premier League fixtures. Early goals have put Slaven Bilic's team on
the back foot against Southampton, West Bromwich Albion and Watford. While
West Ham have fought back to take five points from those matches, it is a
habit the manager will want his team to shake if they are to continue their
recent run of good form.
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Bilic hails Lanzini ability
WHUFC.com
Slaven Bilic hails ability of West Ham United's No10 Manuel Lanzini
Manager says the Argentine is making his teammates better players
Bilic impressed by way 24-year-old has taken on a more influential role in
recent matches
Slaven Bilic says Manuel Lanzini possesses the ability to make every other
West Ham United player perform to a higher level.
Lanzini has been in outstanding form since taking his place as the Hammers'
central playmaker following the departure of Dimitri Payet, making the No10
position behind the striker his own in recent weeks. Manager Bilic says the
24-year-old has shown great maturity to overcome the disappointment of
missing the 2016 Rio Olympic Games through a knee injury to become a vital
member of his side.
The five goals and two assists Lanzini has achieved bely his overall
contribution to the team. His outstanding technique and dribbling, penchant
for wriggling out of tight situations and ability to turn defence into
attack and create space for others are all qualities which Bilic hailed when
asked about the South American's contribution.
Next up for Lanzini and West Ham is the challenge of overcoming runaway
Premier League leaders Chelsea at London Stadium on Monday evening, but the
boss is confident his diminutive creator will not be overawed by facing the
Blues.
"When your best players improve, then you are improving as a team," Bilic
observed. "They are your best players not only because of their individual
skills, but because they are making all the other players around them better
– and that's what Manu means to us.
"He started the season with a big injury and a big disappointment that he
couldn't go to play for Argentina at the Olympic Games, then he needed a bit
of time to get into good shape and all that, and the team helped him.
"Of course he is now also helping the team and he's a top player who is
basically making all the players around him feel more comfortable on the
ball, on the pitch, playing with more confidence, knowing if they're in
trouble they can pass to him and he will always make that space available
for them. That is crucial.
"I'm a big fan of him. He's a very young player with his ups and downs and
he has to stay focussed and totally in his game and in football he can
achieve great things."
*Tickets for Monday's sold-out visit of Antonio Conte's Chelsea to London
Stadium are available now here via the Ticket Exchange.
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West Ham United v Chelsea
MON, 06 MAR 2017
PREMIER LEAGUE
20:00
Venue: London Stadium
BBC.co.uk
TEAM NEWS
West Ham are optimistic that striker Andy Carroll, who has been out for a
month with a groin injury, will be fit to make his comeback on Monday.
However, winger Michail Antonio serves a one-game ban.
Chelsea winger Eden Hazard is expected to be available despite suffering a
knock in training.
They could name the same side which began the 3-1 win against Swansea, with
Cesc Fabregas again likely to be preferred to Nemanja Matic.
RADIO 5 LIVE COMMENTATOR'S NOTES
John Murray: "In all competitions this season, Chelsea have lost only four
matches. They've all been played in London. And one of them was here, on one
of West Ham's best nights yet at their London Stadium, in the EFL Cup back
in October.
"Antonio Conte did not pick his strongest possible team for that match,
indeed perhaps only four of that side will be starting this one. But he will
surely be forearmed after experiencing first hand what West Ham can be
capable of on their day.
"West Ham's nine Premier League wins this season have all come against clubs
who were in the bottom half of the table coming into this round of matches.
"To beat Chelsea again, particularly without the suspended Michail Antonio -
now one of their most important players - would be the achievement of their
season so far."
Twitter: @bbcjohnmurray
Listen to live coverage of West Ham v Chelsea on BBC Radio 5 live, with
commentary from John Murray and Phil Neville.
WHAT THE MANAGERS SAY
West Ham manager Slaven Bilic on the form of ex-Hammers loanee Victor Moses:
"His potential, his characteristics, his strength, were always amazing. His
pace, quality on the ball and stamina is basically top, top-class.
"Sometimes you have to push him to do it day in, day out, and now he is
doing it. His place was anything but guaranteed at the beginning of the
season but he proved himself.
"I remember once I spoke to [Dimitri] Payet during last season. Payet said
that, even including himself, Victor is the best player that we have at West
Ham."
Chelsea head coach Antonio Conte on speculation linking him with a return to
Italian football: "My situation is very clear. I have a contract with
Chelsea. We are trying to do something important with the club, for the
present, for the future.
"Every coach, when you start work with a new club, you hope to stay many,
many years, because it means you are working very well.
"The only problem for me this season is the family is missing me. My family
stay in Italy and I'm working, I'm working for the future to try to bring
them here and to stay together."
LAWRO'S PREDICTION
West Ham's poor start to the season seems a distant memory now but Chelsea
just keep finding a way to win games.
That is why I would back the Blues to get a win at the London Stadium and
also why I don't see anyone catching Antonio Conte's side at the top of the
table.
Prediction: 0-2
MATCH FACTS
Head-to-head
West Ham have won their last two league and cup home games against Chelsea,
both by 2-1 scorelines.
The Hammers' victory in this fixture last season is their only win in the
last eight Premier League meetings (D2, L5).
West Ham United
The Hammers could draw three successive Premier League games for the first
time since a run of four draws between March and April 2016.
Andy Carroll, who has scored in two of his last three games against Chelsea,
is one short of 50 Premier League goals.
Manuel Lanzini has scored seven times in 11 Premier League London derbies -
compared to just four goals in 38 games against sides from outside the
capital.
Chelsea
Chelsea have kept two clean sheets in their last eight league games - having
recorded 10 shut-outs in the previous 12 top flight matches.
Antonio Conte has lost two of his three away London derbies in the Premier
League, at Arsenal and Tottenham, but won at Crystal Palace.
Diego Costa has scored in 54% of his Premier League appearances, a higher
proportion than any other player to feature in at least 20 matches.
Costa needs two goals to reach 50 Premier League goals, and could become the
fifth quickest player to reach that mark after Andrew Cole (65 games), Alan
Shearer (66), Ruud van Nistelrooy (68) and Fernando Torres (72).
Pedro has been directly involved in 10 goals in his last nine games in all
competitions, scoring seven and setting up three.
SAM's verdict
Most probable score: 1-1 Probability of draw: 23%
Probability of home win: 24% Probability of away win: 53%
SAM (Sports Analytics Machine) is a super-computer created by @ProfIanMcHale
at the University of Salford that is used to predict the outcome of football
matches.
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Robert Snodgrass says court warrant is a 'misunderstanding'
Last Updated: 05/03/17 11:25pm
SSN
West Ham's Robert Snodgrass has played down reports of a warrant being
issued in respect of his failure to attend court, saying it is simply 'a
misunderstanding'.
Last week a warrant was issued for the Scotland international after he
failed to attend a court trial having been charged with driving a car while
a baby was being held by a passenger. Snodgrass is alleged to have driven on
Duke Street, Glasgow, on 17 April 2016 with too many people in the vehicle
to fit a baby seat in. But the issue is not expected to affect his or West
Ham's preparations for the Sky Live match wth Chelsea on Monday night.
Snodgrass said: "It was just a misunderstanding and I didn't realise I had
to be present in court. It's not a big issue and will be resolved in due
course."
The former Hull winger admitted he felt right at home on West Ham's recent
trip to Dubai - because the weather was as bad as in his native Scotland. He
said. "It was raining a lot, and cold. It felt pretty much like I was back
home in Glasgow. "So the lads were gutted. They had some swimming shorts for
sitting around the pool after training, but there was none of that.
Absolutely none. "Some of the lads had jackets and hats on, it was
unbelievable - something I had never seen in Dubai before. I still had to
use factor 50, mind. "But it was good. We probably trained harder over there
than we did here. Because that was one thing the manager stressed, that we
have to work harder out there. "The only disappointing thing was that we
thought it was going to be hot-weather training, but it was totally
different."
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Jose Fonte opens up to Graeme Souness about his transfer from Southampton to
West Ham
Last Updated: 05/03/17 8:52pm
SSN
Ahead of a Monday Night Football clash with Chelsea, Jose Fonte has opened
up to Graeme Souness about his transfer from Southampton to West Ham. Fonte
sealed an £8m move to the Hammers in January but believes he was unfairly
criticised for his departure. Here, the former Southampton captain speaks
candidly to ex-Saints manager Souness on why he decided to leave St Mary's
and what went on behind the scenes in a complicated transfer affair…
Graeme Souness: Jose, why West Ham?
Jose Fonte: In the summer, there were a few offers, including West Ham. But
in January they came back in and it was a no brainer for me because of the
size of the club and the move to the Olympic Stadium. The passionate fans
they have and also the ambition of the manager and the chairman. It was an
easy descion to choose West Ham. London is also closer to my wife's side of
the family - so provided her more help to raise the kids. Everything made
sense and I'm extremely happy.
GS: It looks exciting times at West Ham. They look to have a chance to
become a big club.
JF: They didn't have the easiest of starts but it's coming along really
nicely now. Obviously with the Dimitri Payet situation - but the transfer
window is over now and we got Robert Snodgrass, who is a great player. I
look around the dressing room and I see a lot of talent and a great manager.
I see a lot of team spirit and a lot of possibilities - not only for this
year but also for next season. We're in great shape for the future - it's an
exciting time.
GS: Let's talk about the London Stadium. It's the same size pitch, same
players, same ball - but what do the players say about the early form at the
stadium?
JF: When things don't go well, you try to find any kind of excuse. What we
have to get in our head is that it's the same for both teams. You don't want
to play in League One and League Two pitches - you want to play on a massive
pitch in the Olympic Stadium with beautiful grass. That's where you're going
to express yourself in good conditions. For me, it's a question of 'get on
with it' and accept it. Come up with a gameplan, with a solution and that's
what we've been trying to do. It's a big change from the old ground but we
are growing as a club. We know where we want to go and want we want to
become a big club - we can't have excuses about the stadium. It's a great
stadium. When we are playing well, it's fantastic.
GS: You had a great European Championships and came back to Southampton -
what happened next?
JF: I spoke to the club and said there could be possibilities [to move] and
I would like the club to consider it.
GS: Seven years with the club shows you were a good servant. Did the club
not get that? If someone is coming to you offering a better deal, then
Southampton had to understand that you was in demand. I think you can't have
enough experienced players in the dressing room - you won't have a
successful team if you don't have people like yourself, good seasoned pros
that put the lesser likes in the dressing room in their place before it
becomes a problem.
JF: I appreciate what the club had done for me since day one but we all have
to take care of our families. There were offers that came in that would take
care of my family in ways that Southampton weren't willing to. It's a
difficult situation. I arrived in the Premier League late at 29 years old -
you still have to live 50 years after football. You do your best for
yourself and your family. You've got to fight for what you believe. I
respected the club, but they weren't willing to find an agreement and reach
a compromise.
GS: Is it harsh if the crowd give you a bad reception?
JF: I understand. But they don't know all the facts. What they can't forget
is the seven seasons and all the success we had together. That's the main
thing we should remember and relish. It's a disappointing ending with the
things said about me and the situation - which was not true. It was
disappointing to see that.
GS: The club want to portray you as a bad guy - that's the reality. You're
the one that wanted to leave - you're the one that wanted to make all the
demands. That's how it appears to someone who doesn't understand the game.
Supporters out there will say Jose left us in the lurch as we lost Virgil
[van Dijk] to injury and we were short in the cup final. But your conscience
is completely clear of it?
JF: It's completely clear. When I see all over the news that I submitted a
transfer request to leave the club - that's disappointing. That never
happened. There was an interview from the club; from a press conference that
I demanded to leave, which then the press took it as a transfer request and
I wonder where is it?
As I said before, in the summer there were possibilities of leaving - that's
normal, everyone fights for their own interests to get the best possible
outcome for yourself. To say that I wrote an official transfer request to
the club, that's a lie. And also that I refused to train and I wasn't being
a good captain? That's a complete lie. I've always given my best to that
club. That's the main thing the fans should know. My conscious is very
clear.
GS: Do you think you've been unfairly criticised in the manner of how you
left Southampton?
JF: No doubt. You need to know all the facts. It's tough to see in the press
you've put in a transfer request, which I didn't. I never wrote a letter to
the manager or the club saying I want to leave because even when that came
out in the beginning of January I didn't have a club to go to, so why would
I put in a transfer request?
It was tough to see that and to hear people saying bad stuff about you when
it's a lie. But this is football - you learn how to deal with things like
this. At least I have the opportunity to put it right.
GS: What do you want to say to the Southampton supporters that think you
forced your way out of there? I've managed the club and lived there for 12
years - it's a fabulous area to live in - it must have been a wrench. What
is your message?
JF: The real fans know I've given everything for the club. They know
everytime I step on the pitch and put on the shirt, I give blood, sweat and
tears. I've played with broken toes, broken ribs. I've done all I could to
help the team go from League One to the Premier League.
All I want them to know is that what they see in the press about me putting
in a transfer request and I refused to train, that's all lies. I've never
rejected to train or play. I want to play every game and every minute. I was
a good professional as the manager said in the press. It's hard to see when
people are saying I'm a bad egg or an apple.
GS: Where was that coming from?
JF: I saw some things in the press that people had heard I was not being a
good captain. That's very disappointing.
GS: Football is a small world and I hear a lot, especially being in the
media and I've heard you were a good captain.
JF: It's something I give importance to. You have to be an example. I was in
a difficult situation but considering things since the summer I think I
behaved in a good way. It wasn't the ending everyone wanted but it happened,
so we have to move on.
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West Ham v Chelsea preview: Blues travel east for spicy London derby
Last Updated: 05/03/17 6:09pm
SSN
Premier League title favourites Chelsea travel east to take on West Ham
United in what should be a spicy London derby on Monday Night Football.
Only four teams in Premier League history have had more points at this stage
of a season than Chelsea's 63 points. The only team with 63 or more points
after 26 games not to go on to win the title was Arsenal in 2007/08.
Chelsea have won 17 of 19 Premier League games against teams outside top-six
this season but have lost their last two away games against West Ham.
One of those defeats came earlier in the season when the Hammers knocked
Chelsea out of the EFL Cup.
Team news
Andy Carroll is set to replace Michail Antonio in the West Ham squad.
Striker Carroll is fit after missing the last two games with a groin injury
but winger Antonio is suspended following his red card at Watford last
weekend.
Diafra Sakho (back) and Angelo Ogbonna (knee) are the only injury absentees.
Eden Hazard is expected to be fit for Chelsea despite a knock.
Hazard was on the receiving end of a kick in training, but head coach
Antonio Conte expects the Belgium playmaker to be available at the London
Stadium.
Chelsea, leaders by 10 points entering into this weekend's fixtures, have no
other injury concerns.
Ways to watch
Coverage of Monday Night Football starts at 7pm live on Sky Sports 1 with
presenter David Jones joined by Jamie Carragher and special guest Frank
Lampard and you can also watch all the action in UHD via Sky Q.
Match stats
This is the first league meeting between the sides at the London Stadium -
the Hammers won just two of their last 10 Premier League games against
Chelsea at Upton Park (D1 L7).
Chelsea have lost only two of their last 21 Premier League games against
West Ham United (W15 D4).
However, the Hammers eliminated Chelsea from the EFL Cup at the fourth round
stage this season; winning 2-1 at the London Stadium.
Conte has lost two of his three away London derbies in the Premier League,
suffering defeat by Arsenal in September and Tottenham in January, while
beating Crystal Palace in the other game.
Carroll has scored five goals in his last three home London derbies in the
Premier League.
Carroll is one goal away from his 50th strike in the Premier League and has
scored in two of his last three games against Chelsea.
Cesc Fabregas recorded his 102nd Premier League assist in what was his 300th
Premier League game last weekend. He needs one more to move outright second
ahead of Frank Lampard (also 102).
Fabregas has already matched his total of assists from last season (seven)
and assisted twice in last Premier League game against West Ham in March
2016.
Manuel Lanzini has scored in seven of his 11 Premier League London derby
appearances (seven goals). He's scored four goals in 38 Premier League
appearances against non-London sides.
The suspended Antonio has been involved in more Premier League goals than
any other West Ham player this season (11).
Diego Costa has scored 48 goals in 78 Premier League appearances. Should he
score two or more goals in this game, he'll be the fifth quickest to 50
goals in the competition after Andrew Cole (65 apps), Alan Shearer (66
apps), Ruud van Nistelrooy (68 apps) and Fernando Torres (72 apps).
Merson's prediction
Chelsea look like a well-oiled machine at the moment which is showing now
signs of any faults. They did lose to West Ham at the London Stadium in the
EFL Cup earlier in the season, but I do not expect a repeat performance. I
expect Chelsea to win this game. West Ham have struggled in front of their
own fans and are a better side away from home.
PAUL PREDICTS: 1-3 (11/1 with Sky Bet)
Betting
Chelsea are just 8/13 with Sky Bet to take another crucial step towards the
Premier League title by beating West Ham, who are 17/4 to upset their rivals
with a win and 3/1 to hold out for a draw.
Conte's men headed into the weekend as 1/8 shots to lift the trophy while
their hosts are 8/11 to secure a top-half finish. Costa heads the first
goalscorer betting at 100/30 with Andy Carroll considered the hosts' main
threat at 15/2, while the strike duo are 9/2 both to find the net.
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Chelsea and West Ham fans told to behave themselves by Antonio Conte after
trouble at EFL Cup meeting
The Blues return to the London Stadium on Monday and their manager is
praying for no repeat of the ugly scenes that marred October visit
The Mirror
BYADRIAN KAJUMBA
22:30, 5 MAR 2017
Antonio Conte has urged both sets of supporters to be on their best
behaviour at the London Stadium on Monday night, insisting "the country
deserves this."
Chelsea 's EFL Cup visit to West Ham in October was marred by ugly scenes
and fan clashes towards the end of the home side's 2-1 win. Ahead of the
champions-elect's visit to the Hammers in the Premier League, Blues boss
Conte said: "Last time wasn't good. "I hope in this game our fans, the West
Ham fans, enjoy totally the game and find the right atmosphere. "In England,
it's very strange for me to talk about this: Usually in every game you find
the right atmosphere. The last one against West Ham there was an exception.
"But I hope to find a good atmosphere in the stadium. I think the players,
the club, the country deserves this." Conte also admitted it's hard not
being in the Champions League this season and being forced to watch on from
the outside. That was one big reason behind his recent trip to Manchester to
take in City's epic 5-3 win against Monaco in the first leg of a last-16
tie. The former Juventus coach said: "Yes, it hurts to watch games on the
television with Chelsea not involved. "I watched the Manchester City game
against Monaco live, because I wanted to breathe it in, the right
atmosphere, and feel this type of game. "In the future, I hope to sit and
watch games live," said the Italian, who also laughed when asked if he was
also there to run the rule over some of Monaco's highly-rated players.
Chelsea are certain to return to UEFA's elite club competition next season,
and Conte said: "Yes, yes, I miss being in the Champions League. For me and
my players, yes. The Champions League must be an appointment for us every
year. It must be our house. "For this reason, we are putting our strength
into playing in the Champions League next season. It's a great competition
for every single player, club and manager, and we want to stay there and try
to fight to win it. "We started our season trying to fight until the end to
win the title, and to try to fight until the end to be in the right position
to go into next season's Champions League. This was our target. "It wasn't
easy to start the season and know six strong teams fight for the title and
Champions League.
"Don't forget, in this six teams, two won't play in the Champions League
next season. They have to go into the Europa League, which is a bit
different to the Champions League. "But now this league is very, very
difficult. To win the title and also find a place to play the Champions
League is not easy."
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West Ham skipper Mark Noble is the positive side of player power, says boss
Slaven Bilic
The Hammers' captain does much more than wear the armband for his boyhood
club and makes life easier for the manager
The Mirror
BYSTEVE STAMMERS
22:30, 4 MAR 2017
Slaven Bilic is only too willing to confirm there is player power at West
Ham . But rather than the contentious kind which was alleged to have played
such a significant part in the departure of Claudio Ranieri from champions
Leicester less than a year after delivering their shock title triumph, the
West Ham manager welcomes the influence imposed on his squad by Mark Noble .
Noble is captain of the club, but he is more than a token leader who wears
an armband, leads the team out of the tunnel and shakes hand with the
opposition at the toss-up. He is Bilic's man in the dressing room — the one
Bilic trusts to revive morale when results have reflected sporadic success
in the teething problems evident since the relocation to the London Stadium.
"He has been very, very important for me," said Bilic, who is looking for a
repeat of October's home EFL Cup win over Chelsea when the sides meet at the
London Stadium again in the Premier League on Monday night. "You need the
core if your team to be English or British but the captain is the most
important. I can only spend a certain amount of time with the players but
not always in the dressing room where Mark is. "It is crucial to have a
captain like him. I am lucky with Mark." Noble – apart from loan spells at
Hull and Ipswich during his fledgling years – has been a permanent fixture
at West Ham. To Bilic, that has produced a family-like tie that means Noble
feels setbacks more than anyone at the club. "I hope every players hurts
personally when things go wrong," said Bilic. "In Mark's case, it is
big-time personal." Noble, 29, will probably never realise his dream of
representing his country at full international level. But Bilic said: "He
should have been in the Euro 2016 squad. "But now we have a new England
manager. If Mark continues to play well, he should have a great chance of
being picked."
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